Kebaso Released on Bail After Arrest Over Alleged False Claims Against David Langat
Lawyer-turned-activist Morara Kebaso was on Tuesday released on a cash bail of Ksh50,000 after being arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts on charges of cyber harassment.
The court’s decision came swiftly, setting a hearing for Friday, October 4, at 2 pm, where Kebaso and his defense team, led by NARC-Kenya party leader Martha Karua, are expected to make their case. Karua, acting as Kebaso’s lead counsel, was accompanied by a team of more than ten other lawyers, showcasing strong legal support.
The charges brought against Kebaso were based on allegations under Section 27 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act, with the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) accusing him of publishing false information intended to harm the reputation of prominent businessman David Langat.
According to the prosecution, Kebaso allegedly posted false claims on his X (formerly Twitter) account, which implied that Langat had taken out significant loans to finance President William Ruto’s campaign during the previous election. The controversial post further suggested that Langat was now facing legal or financial repercussions after failing to repay these funds.
“David Morara Kebaso alias Morara Kebaso Snr, on the 28th day of September 2024, at an unknown place within the Republic of Kenya, jointly with others not before the court, while using the X Corp Account dubbed @MoraraKebasoSnr, knowingly without lawful excuse, posted false information…” read part of the charge sheet presented in court.
Kebaso’s arrest had made waves on social media, with many calling for his release. He was apprehended on Monday by individuals believed to be police officers at his office in Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi.
His lawyer successfully trailed the police vehicle to Nairobi Regional Headquarters before Kebaso was transferred to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters, where he remained until his court appearance.
As his legal battle unfolds, Kebaso’s case has drawn attention to issues surrounding freedom of expression and the limits of cybercrime legislation.
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Kebaso Released on Bail After Arrest Over Alleged False Claims Against David Langat